Match report Southampton RFC 1XV 45 -30 Ventnor RFC 1XV 2 March 2019

Despite scoring 5 tries away from home, Ventnor were unable to seal the victory away to Southampton RFC 1XV.

After winning the coin toss, Southampton RFC opted to play with the significant wind in the first half. This looked like a great decision after a wayward ball bounced kindly for them to allow the home side to canter in for the first try of the game.

However, it was clear both sides had strong attacking aims and very quickly Ventnor scored a try with Dominic Marsh crashing over for his first first-team try ever.

As both teams started to settle into the game, Southampton looked again to use the wind advantage. This paid dividends and another converted try was the reward. Ventnor picked up a gear following that, and scored two quick tries through Ben Cooper and Ed Blake. Todd Riches also kicked a penalty to put Ventnor 4 points ahead.

With not much time remaining until half time, Ventnor we’re looking forward to having the wind on their backs. Southampton would have the last say of the half though with a break away try.

Into the second half and it was clear that running into the wind all half had taken its toll. Southampton looked fresher for the first part of the second half and scored 3 tries in quick succession.

However, they were now feeling the full force of the wind and Ventnor capitalised with a try from Todd Riches.

Ventnor then dominated possession for the rest of the match, but despite camping in the oppositions half, only managed to score one other try with Ed Blake picking up his second of the game.

AJ Wells Man of the Match – Ben Cooper

Red Funnel Moment of the Match – James Pemberton

Team – Dawson, Jones, Pratt, Teague, Savill, Griggs, Marsh, Colson, Cooper, Riches, Fox, Pemberton, Lines, Atkins, Blake. Subs – Noyes, Turner.

Image: James Morton

Images by Isle of Wight rugby photographer Andrew Cooper Photography

This match report will appear in the Spring 2019 edition of the Ventnor RFC Magazine